Obituary of Mary P. Sweeney
Mary P Sweeney (née Primiano)
June 30, 1923 – January 30, 2025
Mary P Sweeney, a beloved mother, grandmother, and cherished member of the North Plainfield community, passed away peacefully on Thursday, January 30, 2025, at Overlook Hospital in Summit, New Jersey, at the remarkable age of 101.
Mary was born on June 30, 1923, in Leavittsburg, Ohio, where she spent her early years surrounded by the warmth of family and friends. During her freshman year of high school, her family relocated to North Plainfield, New Jersey—a place she would call home for the rest of her life. She graduated from North Plainfield High School, where she was an active and accomplished student, participating in the yearbook club and even earning the lead role in the high school play.
After graduation, Mary began her professional career working as an administrative assistant at Dr. Meyers’ office, where she displayed a natural talent for organization and efficiency. Her life took a joyful turn when she married the love of her life, Martin J. Sweeney. Together, they built a home filled with love, laughter, and cherished traditions. Mary took time away from the workforce to raise their daughter, Susan, embracing motherhood with grace and devotion.
As her daughter grew, Mary returned to work, dedicating her skills to Our Lady of Mount Virgin Church in Middlesex, where she worked in the rectory office. Later, she joined the office of Dr. Anita Joseph, a dear friend, where she continued her career as a trusted and invaluable administrative professional. Remarkably, Mary worked until the age of 91, a testament to her dedication, sharp mind, and unwavering work ethic.
A woman of deep faith, Mary was a devoted parishioner of Saint Joseph’s Roman Catholic Church in North Plainfield, where she cultivated lifelong friendships with clergy and fellow parishioners. Her kindness, generosity, and unwavering faith left a lasting impression on all who knew her.
Beyond her professional and spiritual commitments, Mary had a vibrant and joyful spirit. She was an incredible cook, known for preparing meals that brought family and friends together. An adventurous foodie, she loved dining out, particularly savoring Italian cuisine. She was also musically inclined and enjoyed being a part of various musical clubs throughout Somerset and Union counties. Mary treasured the opportunity to revisit her roots in Ohio, often taking trips back to her childhood hometown. One of her most memorable adventures was a special trip to Iowa, a journey she spoke of fondly.
Mary was predeceased by her beloved husband, Martin J. Sweeney, with whom she shared 59 wonderful years of marriage before his passing in 2005. She was also preceded in death by her dear brother, Oliver Primiano.
She leaves behind a legacy of love, kindness, and unwavering devotion to family. Mary is survived by her loving daughter, Susan Shields, and her husband, Steven; her two cherished grandsons, Lee Martin Ungaretta and Kevin Campbell Ungaretta; and many extended family members and friends who were blessed to know her.
Family and friends are invited to pay their respects during visitation on Monday, February 3, 2025, from 5:00 PM to 7:00 PM at Higgins Home for Funerals, 752 Mountain Blvd., Watchung, NJ. A Mass of Christian Burial will be celebrated on Tuesday, February 4, 2025, at 9:30 AM at Saint Joseph’s Roman Catholic Church, located at the corner of Jackson Avenue and Watchung Avenue in North Plainfield. Following the funeral mass, Mary will be laid to rest beside her beloved husband at Hillside Cemetery in Scotch Plains, New Jersey.
Mary lived her life with warmth, faith, and an enduring dedication to those she loved. She will be remembered always for her generosity, wisdom, and kind spirit, and her memory will live on in the hearts of all who knew her.
